Parents are a toddler's strongest source of security and comfort. Although she still depends on parents when times are rough, she provides her own solace through comforting habits like thumb or pacifier sucking or hugging a security blanket. They allow the toddlers to reduce the tensions of growing up. Secondly, comforting habits allow toddlers to regress briefly when they need to. Third, comforting habits contribute to toddlers' sense of self by giving them new ways to increase their independence.



Sucking remains a powerful way most younger toddlers comfort themselves and the habit will probably stay for a while. Ideally you should recognize the importance your toddler places on this object and just live with your own discomfort. You might compromise by gradually weaning your child away from the pacifier by restricting its use to home, car and other private places. Later confine it to the bedroom at nap and bed times. This may take months so don't force the issue. As for thumb sucking it is not recommended to try and stop this behavior by putting bad-tasting preparations on the fingers; these don't work as intended. Your habit-breaking attempts may build up your toddler's tension. As with pacifiers, thumb or finger sucking subsides on its own though more slowly than you wish.



Security blanket helps many toddlers go through tense times; besides the real blanket other favorite security objects are stuffed toys and dolls. Some toddlers become attached to hard toys and objects or to more than one object. This security object is reassuring because it offers familiarity with no surprises. Most importantly the toddler herself is in complete control of it. Make sure it goes with you to unfamiliar settings, to the playgroup or nursery in the initial days, on trips and vacations, anyplace where she might be uncomfortable. Soft cuddlies have a few built-in problems: they get filthy and some toddlers are so attached to a particular cuddly that they hate having it washed as cleaning ruins its familiar, precious smell. Use unscented soaps or detergents infrequently at your own discretion. Cuddlies can wear out so try to get a duplicate at the start.



Other ways toddlers comfort themselves include rocking rhythmically on hands and knees, fondling hair and stroking a piece of cloth against the face. These repetitions help a child to relax just as rocking during baby days was comforting for the baby. Since these methods are comforting to your toddler, it is best that you accept them instead of discouraging them. Through her acceptance you are supporting her increasing resourcefulness to help herself. Finally if you have issues about your child's habits (in case they are too extreme) discuss them with your doctor.